Alex Manninger: Former Arsenal Goalkeeper Dies Aged 48 After Car Accident
- Ex-Juventus star Alex Manninger died at 48 following a road accident, with Red Bull Salzburg confirming the tragic news
- The former Arsenal goalkeeper played a key role in the club’s 1997/98 double-winning season, stepping in for David Seaman
- Manninger enjoyed a long European career, featuring for clubs like Juventus and earning 33 caps for the Austria national team
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 following a road accident, with his first club Red Bull Salzburg confirming the tragic news.
Manninger played a key role in Arsenal’s historic 1997/98 double-winning campaign, stepping in for David Seaman to make seven Premier League appearances and saving a crucial penalty in the FA Cup semi-final shootout victory over West Ham United.
He went on to make 64 appearances for the Gunners between 1997 and 2002.
Source: Getty Images
After leaving Arsenal, Manninger enjoyed a well-travelled career across Europe. He featured in Serie A for clubs including Fiorentina, Siena, Juventus, Torino, and Bologna, while also playing in Germany for FC Augsburg.
He later returned to Austria with Red Bull Salzburg and finished his career at Liverpool, although he did not make a competitive appearance for the club.
According to Al Jazeera, Manninger earned 33 caps for Austria national team and was part of the squad for UEFA Euro 2008, which was co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland.
Arsenal paid tribute in a statement, saying:
“Everyone at Arsenal is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger. All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.”
Red Bull Salzburg also shared an emotional message, writing:
“We mourn our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Alexander.”
Source: Getty Images
David Seaman pays tribute to Alex Manninger
According to the Mirror, Seaman described Manninger as a “great friend” and a “massive player” in Arsenal’s history.
“It is devastating news,” he said. “It is really sad and difficult to take in. He was a fantastic goalkeeper who stepped in during a critical time and helped us win the double. For such a young player, what he achieved at Arsenal was truly special. The fans loved him, and he made a huge impact.”
As reported by ESPN, Manninger began his professional career at Red Bull Salzburg before joining Arsenal from Grazer AK in a £500,000 move in June 1997.
He left the club in 2002 for Espanyol, going on to build a respected career across Europe and collecting a Serie A winner’s medal during his time with Juventus.
Real Madrid legend Emilio Santamaría passes away
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that José Emilio Santamaría, one of the most iconic defenders in Real Madrid history and a four-time European Cup winner, has died at the age of 96, the Spanish giants confirmed on Wednesday, April 15.
The former centre-back leaves behind a remarkable legacy spanning club and international football, remembered as one of the defining figures of his era.
Source: YEN.com.gh
